The p53 gene is linked to the 17th chromosome and is a tumor suppressor protein. The protein p53 is vital in allowing other normal cells to grow, and be able to tell the difference in each other. A Mutation in p53 regulates significant change in transforming cells from being normal to malignant (cancerous). P53 helps (or codes) for a protein that acts that regulates the cell cycle. If p53 stops or does not start working, this gene through will disrupt the cell cycle. This will normally cause a tumor to form. P53 is linked to the 17th chromosome, meaning that it is autosomal. The p53 gene is also dominant and hereditary. P53 is usually only activated in mutated and damaged cells. This protein fixes what is broken or damaged and regulates growth. If the cell is irreparable, it goes through apoptosis (cell death).
The p53 gene is apparently repairable. When scientists were able to repair the p53 gene in mice, the tumors shrank. In the near future, drugs in line with technology dealing with the p53 gene will probably be used in clinical trials to see if it can benefit humans with tumors that have damaged or mutant p53's.
Mutations with the p53 have to be confirmed through genetic testing or mapping of chromosomes. Since the disease is found on the 17th chromosome, through mapping scientists are able to determine if p53 is the actual problem based upon symptoms. Symptoms include the follow (same as cancer): lump or thickening in the breast or testicles; a change in a wart or mole; a skin sore or a persistent sore throat that doesn't heal; a change in bowel or bladder habits, chronic fatigue. A suspected tumor is a big hint that the p53 is not properly working.